Namibia has sworn in its first female president, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, marking a historic milestone for the country. Nandi-Ndaitwah, 72, was inaugurated on Friday as she takes over the highest office nearly 60 years after joining the liberation movement fighting for Namibia’s independence from apartheid South Africa.
Nandi-Ndaitwah won an election in November to become one of few female leaders in Africa. The ceremony, originally planned at a soccer stadium, was moved to the official presidential office due to heavy rain. Visiting leaders from several African countries attended the event, including South Africa, Zambia, and Tanzania’s President Hassan.
In her pledge, Nandi-Ndaitwah promised to defend and uphold the constitution, vowing to ensure Namibia’s independence gains are preserved and its unfinished agenda for economic and social advancement is carried forward. She also pledged closer regional cooperation, calling for Palestinian self-determination and lifting sanctions against certain countries.
Nandi-Ndaitwah is a veteran of the SWAPO party, which led Namibia’s fight for independence. She was born into an Anglican clergyman family and spent time in exile before becoming a lawmaker and foreign minister. Her inauguration comes as Namibia celebrates its 35th anniversary of independence from South Africa.
Nandi-Ndaitwah succeeds Nangolo Mbumba, who took over following the death of President Hage Geingob. She is now the fifth president of Namibia, a sparsely populated nation in southwestern Africa with a history of struggle for independence.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/namibia-president-female-netumbo-nandindaitwah-5659faa5111d0eade67a9b2a7a22c4dc